Submitted photo SouthPoint Area Branch President Max Meine works with students to purchase a house during Mad City Money on Jan. 19 at the Sleepy Eye Event Center.

SLEEPY EYE – SouthPoint Financial Credit Union hosted 30 Sleepy Eye Public School and St. Mary’s On the Job Training high school juniors on Jan. 19 for a Mad City Money simulation program.

According to a youth.gov survey, results of a financial literacy exam found that high school seniors scored, on average, just 48% of answers correctly, showing a strong need for more comprehensive financial education for youth in high school. The Jan. 19 program was the first one open to area students through SouthPoint. As a cooperative, SouthPoint wants to do all it can to help educate students on financial education.

The program consisted of hands-on simulation that gives youth a taste of the real world, complete with a career, salary, spouse, children, debt, and insurance payments. During the simulation, students selected housing, transportation, food, clothing, and childcare, all while building their budget.

“Mad City Money is a great opportunity for our youth to experience a day in the life of an adult,” said Sleepy Eye Branch President Max Meine. “Students have the opportunity to buy a home, car and provide for their family on a set budget.”

After the event, students said they found interest in the simulation. SouthPoint is eager to provide Mad City Money sessions throughout the areas they serve to continue their work with youth on financial education. Schools or service groups interested in Mad City Money are encouraged to contact marketing@southpointfinancial.com.